New program in Massachusetts is designed to prevent underage drinking

Government officials in Boston recently announced that they will be launching a new underage drinking prevention program starting this month, Boston Channel 5 WCVB reports.

Officials told the news source that they are currently setting up 50 billboards in both English and Spanish throughout Boston neighborhoods with the message that the legal drinking age is 21 and to not provide minors with alcohol.

Similarly, area magazines and buttons will contain the reminder, while window decals and posters will be given to local bars, liquor retailers and restaurants containing the same message.

Officials added that minors are most likely not buying the alcohol themselves, rather they are obtaining it from older friends, family members and others in the community who will provide it to them. The initiative is aimed at reinforcing the message that it is against the law and unsafe to furnish alcohol to teens.

Troubled teen programs can help children who consume alcohol by providing education and therapy that promotes academic and behavior success.

The National Survey on Drug Use and Health reports that in 2008 nearly 28 percent of individuals between ages 12 and 20 consumed alcohol.